Sun shines for Whitley fun day

Thousand attended the South Reading fun day at Rabson’s Rec on Northumberland Avenue in Whitley on Saturday to sample a range of activities for all the family. The community event which keeps growing year on year, was organised by South Reading Churches and Vernon Orr vicar at St Agnes Church in Northumberland Avenue was on hand to show volunteers what needed to be done. The completely free occasion was attended by Church Councillors Eileen, Ashley and Paul, Whitley Councillors Kelly Edwards, Mike Orton and Rachel Eden, Katesgroves Phi James and Mayor Tony Jones as well as Parliamentary candidates Matt Rodda and Victoria Grouleff. Some interesting looking balloons were created by all! Organiser Vernon said “It is the highlight of the year, it is so enjoyable and there is such a great atmosphere that the feel good factor lasts for months.”

Events to entertain the kids included face painting and balloon modelling with many tiger faces walking around with dog shaped balloons. Penalty shoot outs oragnised by Kickz and Reading FC saw many a shot bulge the net, whilst bouncy castles and rock climbing were also available for the more active. Parents could take a break with a free burger and hydrate with bottles of water. All the while music was provided on stage to keep the party atmosphere going. Also in attendance were the Fire Brigade so kids could get sit in a working fire engine, and ReadiFood to highlight the plight of those in need of food parcels. Other stalls were provided by the Whitley excellent cluster and Reading credit Union to highlight the good work they are doing. The sun shone throughout the three hour event, with many kids spilling out into the play equipment whilst parents ate well deserved ice creams! The event was again themed around “Honour Whitley” with thousands of purple wrist bands handed out on arrival by the army of volunteers that made the day run so smoothly for the 5000 or so attendees. Reverend Orr said “We just want to remind the community it is okay to feel good about itself,”